Steuben County: Wine, Glass, Horses, and More in New York’s Finger Lakes

Overview of Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes in the central western area of New York State is known as one of the top wine-producing areas in the United States. In addition to fantastic wineries in the Finger Lakes, locals and visitors can enjoy world-class cuisine, boating and other water activities, awesome hiking and biking trails, horseback riding, beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and friendly folks.

I recently spent 10 heavenly days in Fingers Lakes. It was my first visit to the Finger Lakes region, and after my time there I wondered what took me so long to visit. I definitely am making plans to return to this rural paradise with my wife sometime soon.

In this article I will give you an overview of the Finger Lakes and an introduction to Steuben County, with links to more specific articles and videos. Other articles will focus on Yates, Schuyler, and Livingston counties. I’ll show you a map of the Finger Lakes area, and highlight the special places we were able to visit. Looking at that map, I see so many more places I plan to visit and other special destinations I will return to.

Finger Lakes Maps in New York State

A Brief Overview and History of the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region of New York State is located in central western New York. Finger Lakes refers to eleven lakes in the area made by the regression of ancient glaciers in times past. Most of the resulting lakes resemble long, thin fingers. Thus the name Finger Lakes. There are many other lakes in the area, but the larger eleven lakes referred to as the Finger Lakes are, from west to east:

Our first stop, and the location of our conference, was the Radisson Corning Hotel in Corning, Steuben County. It made a great starting headquarters to see the many sights in the Finger Lakes. The Radisson is conveniently located near the Gaffer District, and numerous restaurants, shops, and the wonderful Rockwell Museum are just steps away on Market Street. Just across the Chemung River, the famous Corning Glass Museum is a 20 minute walk (or five minute drive) away. For those flying into the Corning-Elmira Airport, the Radisson is just ten miles from the hotel.

Comfortable beds, modern amenities, plenty of event space, onsite restaurant, free wifi, a fitness room, and central location make the Radisson an ideal place to stay when visiting Corning. The hotel is the place to stay in Corning to enjoy the Corning Glass Museum, The Rockwell Museum, the National Soaring Museum, and the many fine wineries in the Finger Lakes Region.

Glenn Curtiss Museum in Hammondsport

The Glenn Curtiss Museum commemorates the innovations and contributions of Glenn Curtiss to the bicycle, motorcycle, and aviation communities. Curtiss was a master innovator and accomplished so much during his 52 years. Many of his experiments and accomplishments took place in and around his birthplace of Hammondsport on the south side of Keuka Lake.

The museum is a testament to the many contributions Curtiss made in the early years of aviation. A contemporary of the Wright Brothers, Curtiss began experimenting with bicycles and motorcycles before moving on to airplanes. In fact, he set the world land speed record at 136.66 miles per hour in 1907 aboard his V-8 powered motorcycle that he also designed. The museum does a wonderful job of chronicling Curtiss’ career in aviation and other endeavors. 

This mechanical genius with a need for speed was a man of firsts ahead of his time. He had the first successful public flight in America and completed the first long distance flight, from Albany to New York, in 1910. He received the first pilot’s license in the country, trained the first female pilot, and developed the seaplane and flying boat, which eventually helped “turn the tide” during WWI. Because of his many contributions to naval aviation, he is known as “the father of naval aviation.”

Boat Tour on Historic Pat II on Keuka Lake

Our fun time on the Pat II Boat Tour of Keuka Lake was an entertaining and educational view of the lake from the water. The Pat II is a historic boat from 1924 lovingly restored by boat enthusiasts. We loaded up at the Depot Park at 7 Water Street on the southern tip of Keuka Lake. 

Captain Doug and mate Liam took great care of us as we cruised the southern part of Keuka Lake. Quietly running on lithium iron batteries, we traveled up the eastern side of Lake Keuka and returned to the pier via the western side of the lake. Along the way we passed numerous private residences, parks, Snug Harbor Restaurant, and several marinas while learning about the history of the boat and lake from Captain Doug.

Pleasant Valley Wine Company, Finger Lakes’ Oldest Winery

Next, we spent time at the Pleasant Valley Wine Company, the oldest and one of the largest wineries in the Finger Lakes region, established in 1860. The winery proudly holds the designation of U. S. Bonded Winery No 1, and has eight historic buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can enjoy the Gold Seal Blanc de Blanc, a delightful sparkling Champagne. And, yes, because of a loophole in the Treaty of Versailles, they can call it Champagne.

Pleasant Valley Wine Company put New York wines on the map early on by winning its first award in Europe for American sparkling wine in 1867 and a gold medal for its Great Western Champagne in Vienna in 1873. For over 150 years and through several changes in ownership, Pleasant Valley Wine Company has continued to serve outstanding wines made in their Hammondsport facilities. 

Historic Park Inn and Restaurant in Hammondsport

Park Inn, located in the oldest building in Hammondsport, is considered by many to be the top Inn and Restaurant in town. The inn and restaurant occupy the oldest structure in town, going all the way back to 1861. Five beautifully restored suites above the restaurant offer visitors the luxury and historic architecture of the inn. Each suite has a king or queen bed with fine linens, private bath with a shower, TV, wifi, and bottled water. The space down the hall from the bedrooms contains a coffeemaker and hot water pot stocked with a variety of coffees, teas, sweeteners, and creamers. Most rooms also include a sitting room with a pull-out couch. 

We had a delicious dinner downstairs at the wonderful Park Inn Restaurant. Tempting starters on the menu include East Coast Oysters on the Half-Shell, Calamari, Caprese Salad, and Artisan Cheeseboard. In a mood for seafood, I savored the Seafood Risotto, Shrimp, Salmon, and Oven Dried Tomato. Another person in my dining party ordered the Pork Tenderloin, served with Acorn Squash Puree, Pickled Pepper Garlic Shallot Tomato ConfitPork Peach Demi-Glacethe. The Sirloin Steak with Garlic Potato Puree, Swiss Chard, Kale, and a Curry Demi-Glace also looked delicious.

Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes

Heritage Village of the Finger Lakes in Corning gave us an intimate look at the early days of the area. Director Charlette Smith and her staff have put together an educational and entertaining look into the early life of settlers in the area, focusing on the Patterson family. Norma Bird, a local volunteer with an encyclopedic knowledge of the area’s history, brought life to our tour of the village. We learned about the Patterson family and how they survived in those early days, including the importance of the Three Sisters (corn, beans, and squash). The main house, the blacksmith shop, the schoolhouse, and the garden were all very interesting and well done.

Visit the website for information about the village and how to schedule a tour.

Corning Museum of Glass

No visit to the Finger Lakes would be complete without a visit to the fabulous Corning Museum of Glass.Dedicated to the art, history, and science of glass, this amazing complex is a world-class showplace. The museum features the latest breakthroughs in glass technology as well a wide variety of art pieces, with some over 3,500 years old. Visitors can even participate in making their own blown glass by creating glassworks they can take home with them. I made a beautiful ornament at the Corning Museum of Glass Studio.

Hands-On Glass: Hot Glass Studio in Corning

I also visited the amazing Hands-On Glass: Hot Glass Studio in Corning. These glass pros provide another hands-on experience for blowing and rolling glassworks. Depending on the object you are making, participants have the opportunity to blow, roll, pull, and snip various glass items. For blowing pumpkins and ornaments, visitors as young as two years old can participate. One of our group made a colorful paperweight (for teens to adults), which provides the most hands-on experience.

Rodi Rovner, Owner and Founder aka “the driving force”, says, “It has been my privilege to operate and continue to grow Hands-on Glass in a community with such a rich glassmaking heritage.” We thoroughly enjoyed making our own glass art with the help of the trained technicians at Hands-On. I made a green apple and had it shipped to my home in Texas. Others in my group made a pumpkin and a colorful heart-shaped paperweight.

The Cellar on Market Street in Corning

The Cellar is a well-known restaurant on Market Street, a short walk from the Radisson Hotel. I couldn’t resist ordering their famous Chicken and Waffles, the perfect combination of savory and sweet. This delectable dish consists of Fried Local Pastured Chicken Breast, Ithaca Cheddar and Chive Belgian Waffles, Smoked Pepper Butter, Sriracha Maple Syrup, and Organic Sweet Potato Brussels Hash. Other popular items include the Lamb Lollipops, made with Chevre, Fig Demi-Glace, Crispy Prosciutto, and Mint. I had my eye on the pan-seared Halibut, which I’ll have to save for another time.

For dessert, I had the delicious Vanilla Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream. Other desserts on the menu included the Dark Chocolate Lava Cake, Crème Brulee, and a Peach Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream. 

In addition to fantastic food, The Cellar is known for its extensive wine list, with a vast and fun wine list with 18 by the glass and 500 choices offered by the bottle.

Their modern fusion meals are made from the finest local ingredients, so the menu often changes with the season.

Horseback Riding at Mountain Rose Farm

One of my favorite parts of our trip was riding horses at the beautiful Mountain Rose Horse Farm. Sisters Rachel Beiler and Emily Gingerich have created the perfect setting with a group of friendly, beautiful horses to ride through peaceful countryside trails.

I mounted Tucker, a magnificent 17-year-old quarterhorse referred to as the Golden Boy. Others in my group rode Xena, Beau, and Meg. As always, Lucas, the family goat, was there to supervise the activities. Lucas has been a family pet for years, and can be seen hanging around the porch and horses frequently. As one guest remarked, Lucas is like a labrador retriever with horns!

As the sisters wisely say, “Break from the Busy. Come to Mountain Rose Farm to take a break from the craziness of life, create memories, and reconnect with yourself so you can go back to your regular schedule feeling uplifted, renewed, and re-energized.”

Sage advice.

Weis Vineyards on Keuka Lake 

Weis Vineyards is one of the newer wineries (2017) on Keuka Lake, and has already been named Winery of the Year in 2022 and 2024! Founded by Hans Peter Weis from the Mosel River Valley wine region of Germany and his wife, Ashlee, a Hammondsport native, this fabulous winery with a spectacular view of Keuka Lake should be on everyone’s must-visit list to the Finger Lakes. In addition to the two Winery of the Year Awards, Weis was also awarded the Governor’s Cup for 2024 for their 2018 Riesling Ice Wine.

I loved several of the wines I sampled. My favorites were the 2023 Dry Reisling, a 2023 Dry Rose, and the Late Harvest Winzer Select Riesling A – sweet and smooth. As Meredith poured our tastings, in addition to the wonderful wines, we were treated to the scenic views of Keuka Lake through the large windows. Hans Peter stopped by for a delightful chat for a while, and then had to return to work as they put the finishing touched on the latest renovations. 

As if this award-winning winery didn’t have enough to showcase, Weis Vineyards is in the final stages of an expansion to create even more special spaces to enjoy these great wines. Once completed, the new Weis will be a spectacular venue for weddings, special events, and romantic getaways.

As noted on the Weis glasses and literature, “ZUM WOHL!!” (Cheers, or good health!)

Snug Harbor on Keuka Lake

It was Fish Fry Friday on Lake Keuka, so, of course, we headed to Snug Harbor for a lunch of fresh fried fish and fries served with a tasty coleslaw. The fish was hot and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the beer was cold and refreshing. Snug Harbor also has a nice variety of appetizers, salads, burgers, seafood, and other tempting choices. They also have boat slips for rental on the water. Lunch or dinner on Keuka Lake at Snug Harbor is always a treat at this iconic eatery.

Guests can also stay in one of the renovated bacony suites overlooking Keuka Lake. Check their website for information on rooms and hours.

Stony Brook State Park              

Stony Brook State Park is a popular park featuring a rugged gorge and several waterfalls and hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, camping, and picnics in this scenic area of western New York State. The walkways, bridges, sports fields, and fine facilities at Stony Brook State Park make for a tranquil getaway for outdoor lovers. With almost 100 campsites and rustic cabins and a variety of play fields that includes Playgrounds, Tennis Court, Baseball Field, Volleyball Court, and Basketball, this family friendly park has something for everyone.

Cider Creek Hard Cider            

Cider Creek Hard Cider is New York’s most awarded farm cidery. Nestled in the hills on a family farm in Canisteo, this rustic cidery uses only New York apples and never adds any water, sugar, artificial flavors, or sweeteners to its products. One look around the facility and you know this is a country home for hunters who just happen to make great cider. Mounted deer, bear, fox, and other critters align the walls. They offer a wide variety of flavors of ciders and beer and a selection of food including wings and pizza. I enjoyed my flight of Drunkin Pumpkin, Cran Mango, Pineapple Coconut, and Orange Creamsicle. The crisp juices of the apples and other flavorings made for a delightful, refreshing taste explosion.

Marino’s in Hornell

Marino’s on Loder in Hornell is one of the leading fine dining restaurants in the area. Packed on this Friday night, this popular place was humming. Despite the large crowd, our service was fast, friendly, and efficient. Start with their famous French Onion Soup and one of their delicious salads. Entrees range from tasty pasta dishes, chicken, steak, seafood, and a host of other tantalizing items. I loved my seafood stuffed haddock served with mashed potatoes and mixed veggies. 

Others at my table enjoyed the filet mignon, the chicken parmesan, and an amazing Penne Bechamel (Carbonara). This dish consisted of garlic and shallots sautéed with bacon in a creamy white wine sauce tossed with penne pasta and topped with Parmesan cheese, scallions and tomatoes. So good!

Pleasant Valley Inn near Hammondsport 

Take two childhood friends, vast experience in the culinary arts, and a beautiful building in the countryside just outside Hammondsport, and you have the makings of Pleasant Valley Inn. Longtime friends and chefs Tyler and Steve have created a wonderful respite in a peaceful setting.  Four beautifully appointed rooms with luxurious queen-sized bed, private bath, cable tv, free WiFi, and a convenient wine fridge await. Each night’s stay includes a made to order breakfast prepared by the outstanding chefs of Lake Life Catering. 

Tyler and Steve also operate Lake Life Catering, a highly regarded catering company serving the Finger Lakes. The Pleasant Valley Inn is an ideal venue for weddings, small group get-togethers, corporate events, or a romantic getaway for couples. Dozens of wonderful wineries, restaurants, downtown Hammondsport, and fun-filled Keuka Lake are just minutes away.

Bully Hill Vineyards on Keuka Lake

Bully Hill Vineyards on the southern end of Keuka Lake has been a Finger Lakes institution for about a century since founder Walter S. Taylor’s grandfather started the Taylor Wine Company on the very same plot of land Bully Hill stands today. Many changes have occurred over the years, including the time when Coca Cola acquired Taylor Wine and Walter went to battle to save the company. I enjolyed their famous Crabcakes and Scallops along with a fabulous Reisling and the breathtaking view. With its scenic location, outstanding food, fabulous wines, and intriguing history, Bully Hill Vineyards is a top destination to visit in Finger Lakes.

Living Roots Winery on Keuka Lake

Living Roots Wine and Company is a newer winery with a gorgeous view of Keuka Lake. An unusual twist is that Living Roots is a winery in both the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York and the Adelaide Hills region of South Australia. Seb grew up in the family winery in Adelaide that goes back to 1850, while Colleen grew up in Rochester, near the Finger Lakes. She also got involved in the wine industry, and was working at Hardy’s Tintara Winery when the two met at the McLaren Vale harvest in 2014. In 2016 they established Living Roots, and now divide their time between New York and Australia. In the Finger Lakes, their focus is on rich whites and sparklings, and in South Australia, it’s vibrant, medium-bodied reds.

We stopped for a brief visit and chatted with Seb and Col for a quick minute. They are a delightful couple, and seem so full of energy and passion for their wines. I sipped on a wonferful Pinot Noir 2020 from Adelaide Hills while admiring the spectacular view from the comfortable tasting room.

Steuben County in the Fabulous Finger Lakes

Steuben County has so much to offer. From outstanding wine, cozy lodgings, great food, fun activities, gorgeous landscapes, friendly folks, and so much. Come see Steuben County in the fabulous Finger Lakes for yourself!

Many thanks to the wonderful folks at Explore Steuben for hosting us!

Read more about special places in the Finger Lakes: Steuben County (Corning Glass), Schuyler County (Watkins Glen State Park), Chemung County (Elmira), Yates County (Fox Run Vineyards), and Livingston County (Letchworth State Park).